8 Friendly Running Groups In London
It’s that time of the year again when the London Marathon has come and gone, and the few of us remaining who weren’t part of it are left wondering, maybe next year?
If you’ve taken a hiatus from running and you’re looking for a nudge to get back to it, or you’re just wondering what all the fuss is about (endorphins, they say) these groups in London are a great way to start exploring London’s many running routes. Plus, it’s a chance to meet new people and maybe even end up being one of those smiling runners at the London Marathon next year. Whether you’d like to get a bib on or not we leave up to you, but if you are keen to run and not sure where to start, a friendly running group is the perfect place. Here are our picks of running groups across London:
Track Mafia
This community of dedicated runners takes their running very seriously and if you’re looking for some inspiration to be more consistent with your running and train alongside more experienced athletes, this one’s for you. While they meet every Thursday evening, the group has trail runs as well. Training happens in four-week blocks, with something new (and more intense) each week.
When: Every Thursday, 6.30PM
Where: Paddington Recreation Ground W9 1PF
contact: trackmafia
Pure Sport Running Club
With weekly run clubs that are free to join, the club has room for everyone from pros to beginners. All abilities are welcome here, with a bag drop available if you need it.
You can head to the website to join the club WhatsApp groups for the latest updates and schedules in your area. The club offers a 5km run at every location and on weekends there are long runs that vary in distance so you can pick something that suits your ability.
When: Weekly
Where: Across London
Contact: puresport
Run Dem Crew
If you’re looking for a safe space to run and make friends too, Run Dem Crew has an exciting calendar of social events that brings a strong sense of community to the group. Passionate about bringing people together for the love of running, the crew is run by DJ, poet and writer Charlie Dark. Whether you’re gearing towards your first race or you just want a supportive community to run with, the Run Dem Crew is great for runners of all abilities.
When: Tuesdays, 6.30pm
Where: Spitalfields Market
Contact: run.dem.crew
TRIBE
With a community of 50,000 athletes who organise fitness events throughout the year, TRIBE has fortnightly training sessions (on Wednesdays) where runners gathers for a 7km social run followed by TRIBE goodies to refuel. The sessions have pacers who guide runners through the streets of London and the group welcomes people of all abilities.
WHEN: 18.15, Wednesdays (fortnightly)
Where: Kennington Park Workspace, Brixton Road
CONTACT: wearetribe
Your Friendly Runners
The perfect group to take your first few steps with if you’re a beginner, Your Friendly Runners have training sessions on four days of the week in various locations including Hackney Road, Parliament Hill and Victoria Park.
Runners are divided into different pace groups so you can stick to the speed you’re comfortable with.
When: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday
where: Across London
Contact: yourfriendlyrunners
London Frontrunners
An inclusive running and triathlon club for LGBTQ+ people and allies, the club is open to everyone from recreational joggers to competitive athletes.
Regular runs happen four times a week at parks across London and training sessions are also offered at Primrose Hill and Mile End Stadium.
When: Four times a week
Where: Across London
Contact: londonfrontrunners
London City Runners
The London City Runners organise road running sessions on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday along the Thames which are free to join. (They only ask that you stick around for a drink afterwards). Wednesday track sessions need to be booked and paid for in advance. Although beginners are welcome here, the group recommends that you can run at least a continuous 5k before joining road runs or track sessions with the group.
When: Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday
Where: Meet at 130 Druid Street, London SE1 2HH
Contact: londoncityrunners.com
Putney Running Club
Putney has some gorgeous running spaces, and joining the Putney Running Club is the perfect way to explore them all. Set off on river runs towards Hammersmith or road runs around Bishops Park and even towards Richmond Park (if you can handle the hills).
When: Wednesday and Saturday
Where: Putney
Contact: putneyrunning
